Dichotomous location of 160 atypical femoral fractures.

ABSTRACT:

Background and purpose

The risk of atypical fracture of the femur is associated with bisphosphonate use. While characterizing atypical fractures from a previous nationwide study in radiographic detail, we had the impression that the fractures were located either in the subtrochanteric region or in the shaft. We determined whether there is a dichotomy in this respect.

Patients and methods

The distance between the atypical fractures and the lesser trochanter was measured on plain radiographs from 129 of 160 patients with atypical fractures, taken from 2008 through 2010. Analysis of the distances measured showed 2 clusters, which were then analyzed with regard to bisphosphonate use and age.

Results

The distribution of the distances would be best described as 2 clusters,

SUBMITTER: Koeppen VA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3851670 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature